Sweet Grown Alabama Blogs

For as long as I can remember, people asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up. My answer was always the same: a teacher.

After many years in the classroom, I retired from teaching and began working as an online private tutor. Then I found myself asking that same question again: What do I want to be when I grow up?

This time, my answer was different.

I wanted to be a farmer.

In 2021, I began building our farm in Hazel Green and named it Planting Chicks Farm because it combines two of the things I enjoy most — growing plants and raising poultry. Today, our nearly 20-acre farm includes wooded areas, a productive vegetable garden, chickens, ducks and plenty of room to continue growing in the future.

While I love every part of farming, my ducks have become the stars of the farm. They are full of personality and never fail to make me smile. Whether they're giving me their funny looks or racing around their ponds, they always keep life interesting. They also provide fresh duck eggs every day.

One of my favorite parts of farming is introducing people to duck eggs, especially those who have never tried them before. Duck eggs are naturally larger than chicken eggs and are known for their rich flavor and large yolks. They contain protein, healthy fats and vitamins such as B12, A and folate. I use them in all of my baking, from cookies and cakes to pancakes, because I love the richness they add to recipes.

Some people who cannot tolerate chicken eggs have found that they are able to enjoy duck eggs, although everyone's experience is different. Anyone with food allergies should talk with a healthcare professional before trying a new food.

I enjoy answering questions about duck eggs and helping customers discover something new. It's rewarding to see someone try them for the first time and come back because they enjoyed the experience.

If you're ever in the Hazel Green area, I'd love for you to visit Planting Chicks. You can stop by the farm to purchase fresh duck eggs or arrange to meet me locally. My goal is simple: to share high-quality, locally produced food and help more people experience the unique products grown right here in Alabama.

Farming may not have been my first career, but it has certainly become one of my greatest passions.

The views and opinions expressed in this blog are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Sweet Grown Alabama.